Odisha Student Union Elections to Return After 8 Years; Polling Scheduled for October 15

Bhubaneswar: A major development has brought fresh excitement to college and university campuses across Odisha. After an eight-year gap, student union elections are set to return to higher education institutions across the state, with polling scheduled for October 15, 2026.

Higher Education Minister Suryabanshi Suraj announced the election schedule on Monday following a meeting with Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi. The decision marks the revival of a democratic process that has remained suspended across Odisha campuses since 2017.

Election Schedule Announced

According to the schedule announced by the Higher Education Department, the election process will begin shortly.

• October 7: Official election notification will be issued by colleges and universities.
• October 9: Candidates will file their nomination papers.
• October 13: The “Why I Stand For” meeting will be held.
• October 15: Voting will take place across participating campuses.
• October 16: Newly elected student representatives will take oath and assume office.

The government has planned to complete the entire election process before the Durga Puja vacation.

Eight-Year Wait Comes to an End

Student union elections were last held regularly in Odisha in 2017. The subsequent election process was disrupted in 2018 amid Cyclone Titli and campus-related disturbances. The suspension continued in the following years, with the COVID-19 pandemic further delaying the return of campus elections.

The absence of elected student bodies has been a long-standing concern among student organisations, which have repeatedly demanded the restoration of campus elections.

The return of elections is therefore expected to bring renewed political and democratic activity to campuses across the state.

Focus on Peaceful and Transparent Polls

With student organisations preparing for the election process, authorities are expected to maintain strict discipline and ensure that the polls are conducted peacefully.

The Higher Education Department has emphasised the need for a transparent election process and adherence to prescribed rules. Any incidents of violence, indiscipline or violation of election guidelines may invite action under applicable rules.

The October 15 polling will be closely watched as Odisha campuses prepare to witness the return of student representation after an eight-year hiatus.

With the election schedule now announced, attention will shift to nominations, campaigning and the participation of student organisations across colleges and universities in the state.